Firefighters have issued another warning to smokers after a fire at a flat on Thornton Road in Streatham Hill.
Part of a first-floor flat in a residential block was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials on a balcony.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you're a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home but also cost you your life.
“Firefighters recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.
“The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire.”
The Brigade’s Control Officers took the first of six calls to the fire at 2235 and mobilised four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Clapham, Tooting and Brixton fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 2347.
Firefighters' smoking safety tips
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Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
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Don’t leave lit cigarettes unattended.
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It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
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Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.
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Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
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Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.